Art and Soul: The Impact of the Sorensons’ Commitment
The Sorenson family name is synonymous with arts at Babson College.
Richard W. Sorenson MBA’68, H’23, P’97 ’00, G’27 and Sandra Sorenson P’97 ’00, G’27 have been longtime supporters of the arts on campus, generously investing in facilities, scholarships, and other initiatives that provide opportunities for students to explore their creativity and expression and for the community to enjoy and learn from artistic performances of all kinds.
The College’s main arts facility—recently renamed the Richard & Sandra Sorenson Center for the Arts—includes the Carling-Sorenson Theater and the Sandra L. Sorenson Rehearsal Studio. And, the Rick and Sandy Sorenson Endowed Scholarship for the Arts provides financial support for undergraduate students who have demonstrated an interest and proficiency in pursuing the creative arts during their time at Babson.
The commitment to supporting and enhancing the arts at the No. 1 school for entrepreneurship creates a powerful combination for students and the College community.
“My wife and I love the arts. We just enjoy it so much because the arts are such a creative thing,” Richard Sorenson said in 2023. “And, really, they’re entrepreneurial, because an individual is giving of themselves, and they’re providing something unique.”
BABSON MAGAZINE: Read the complete Spring 2025 issue.
Here, a few current Sorenson Arts Scholars—who shared their works at their annual showcase—reflect on the impact of their scholarship and the Sorensons’ commitment to the arts at Babson:
Gabi Garozzo ’25
“Being a Sorenson Arts Scholar has connected me to an inspiring and encouraging group of artists on Babson’s campus. I’ve been able to try my hand at new forms of art, like ceramics, while also having the resources to improve my passion for painting. I have also met a lot of students and staff here who share my interest in art, which has enhanced my love for it.
“As an incoming college freshman, I was worried that I wouldn’t have enough time to continue creating art. I soon realized this wouldn’t be an issue, because although Babson is a business school, the arts community here is mighty. The staff helped ensure I have the resources and drive to make art. There is also a special energy here on campus when student artists share their work with one another. As an artist, I have felt very welcomed by this environment of collaboration. By being involved with the arts, I have been able to develop my confidence in my own art and my ability to present my pieces. Some of my most memorable moments at Babson have been just after presenting my work as a Sorenson Arts Scholar to this tight-knit community.”
Julian Ivarra ’25
“The opportunities that I have received from the generosity of the Sorenson family have been life-changing and have helped shape the trajectory of my college successes and beyond. Being involved with the arts at Babson has introduced me to a variety of unique creators. As a woodworker, it is invaluable to be exposed to artists working in different mediums who display their creativity in amazing ways. Working with my fellow scholars and seeing their work at the annual spotlight is such a memorable experience that always inspires me to keep creating and pushing the limits of what I think is possible. Additionally, by continuing to develop my skills at Babson, it reaffirms the role that art plays in my life and my desire to continue woodworking well after college, urging me to seek out fellow artists wherever life may take me.”
Rosie Ruben ’27
“Being involved with the arts at Babson has been an incredibly enriching experience. While Babson is known for its entrepreneurial environment, having a dedicated space to focus on my art has reinforced and deepened my passion for fashion. It not only keeps me motivated but also allows me to explore how I can merge my two greatest passions—entrepreneurship and fashion—into a future career. This experience has shown me that creativity and business are not separate but can work together to build something truly unique and impactful.”
Ben Yaeger ’27
“The Sorenson Arts Scholarship has profoundly shaped my Babson experience. The financial support has given me the freedom to fully engage in campus life and opportunities without the burden of a job during the school year. Additionally, the community created by the scholars and advisors has encouraged me to explore new art forms and step out of my comfort zone. I am truly grateful for the opportunities this has given me.
“Being at a school where everything is business-minded is a great gift. However, I think to become a well-rounded individual it is important to engage in activities that are completely separated from business. Having a creative outlet through the Sorenson Arts Scholarship has given me a platform to be expressive and step away from the business environment. I feel like this has not only made my college experience more enjoyable but set me apart from other students when applying for summer internships.”
Nora Ryan ’25
“As a Sorenson Arts Scholar, I am so grateful to be able to share my art with my friends and family at the spotlight event. It is always one of my favorite and most special days of the year. The most meaningful part of being involved in the arts at Babson has been having this close and unique community. It has allowed me to meet wildly talented and interesting people in all class years.”
Leah Paragano ’26
“I am so grateful for the Sorenson family’s generous donations to the arts at Babson. … I grew up doing musical theater since I was 8 years old. I started doing a cappella and choir in high school as well. The arts were my safe space that always made me feel welcome, happy, and at home. Now that I’m in college, I’m so glad I could continue doing something that makes home feel a little less far away and college more comfortable.”
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